Former Belfast Telegraph print office set to become events space

Work has taken place to create two new emergency exits at the old Belfast Telegraph office in Belfast city centre. The former printing hall is set to take on a new permanent role as a licensed events space for at least the next two years. Picture by Bill Smyth

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The former home of the Belfast Telegraph has been empty since the newspaper relocated

THE former printing hall of the Belfast Telegraph is set to take on a new role as a licensed events space for the next two years.

Plans have been submitted by The Limelight Belfast for a change of use of the former printing hall to an event space for a period of two years, including internal alterations and creation of two emergency exists on to Donegall Street.

The venue, which is owned by Belfast City Council and McAleer & Rushe, is set to become a hub for the hundreds of students who will flock into the area when the new Ulster University campus opens in September 2019.

Work has already taken place at the old Telegraph building to create the two emergency exits, while workmen have been working internally on the printing warehouse to ensure its suitability as a music venue.

The development plans were submitted on Thursday September 28, just two days before Belfast promoter Shine held a successful techno music night at the venue, the first of a series of live music events due to take place over the next few months.

An occasional drinks license was granted for that gig, and future events are likely to be able to sell alcohol as well.

Former owners the Belfast Telegraph moved to new premises in Clarendon Dock last September, ending over 130 years at its iconic location on Royal Avenue in Belfast city centre.

In August 2015 Telegraph owners Independent News & Media announced following the closure of its print plant and the loss of 89 printing jobs.